At the 2025 NCAA Division I Indoor Championships in Virginia Beach, VA, Nigerian sprinters Kayinsola Ajayi and Israel Okon delivered a standout performance in the men’s 60m final, marking a significant milestone for Nigerian athletics on the collegiate stage.
Both athletes posted an identical time of 6.52 seconds, with Ajayi narrowly edging out Okon by just three-thousandths of a second to secure the silver medal. The race was fiercely competitive, as Arkansas’s Jordan Anthony claimed the gold with an impressive time of 6.48 seconds.
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The 60m dash, often decided by hundredths of a second, saw the Nigerian duo showcase not only raw speed but also exceptional race strategy. Ajayi and Okon powered through the starting blocks and maintained a near-perfect form throughout the race. Their performance demonstrated the high level of training and competitiveness that has become synonymous with Nigeria’s emerging sprinting talents.
Kayinsola Ajayi, born on 14 September 2004 and hailing from Ikorodu, has been rapidly making a name for himself in the world of sprinting. With a recent personal best improvement to 6.48 seconds in the 60m, Ajayi’s achievements have cemented his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most promising young sprinters. His career has seen him win national titles, compete at the World Athletics U20 Championships, and even represent Nigeria at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Israel Okon, also representing Auburn, displayed similar determination and potential, finishing just a hair behind his compatriot.
The final not only showcased individual talent but also highlighted the depth of Nigerian sprinting talent. Fakorede Adekalu of Miss State finished eighth with a time of 6.59 seconds, illustrating the broad spectrum of speed among Nigerian sprinters in the competition.
The performance of Ajayi and Okon at such a prestigious event signals a bright future for Nigerian athletics. Their ability to compete with some of the best collegiate athletes in the United States adds to the growing list of achievements by Nigerian sprinters on the international stage. Coaches and sports analysts alike are watching closely, as these performances are expected to bolster Nigeria’s presence in upcoming international competitions.
The NCAA Indoor Championships serve as a very important platform for emerging athletes, providing them with the exposure and experience necessary to transition to higher levels of competition. With the outdoor season on the horizon, expectations are high for Ajayi, Okon, and their Nigerian teammates to build on their indoor success and potentially represent Nigeria in global tournaments.
